Eastgate Soccer Association is a volunteer-run organization. We rely on the generosity of individuals to donate their time and effort to help bring the game of soccer to a group of youngsters. As with any youth-based organization, there are several requirements that all of our coaches must meet prior to the season. It is critical that we all work diligently to uphold and insure that the leagues’ policies and guidelines are followed.

The following steps MUST be taken by ALL coaches (head coaches and assistant coaches) prior to the first practice.

**STEP ONE - RISK ASSESSMENT / BACKGROUND CHECK**

Eastgate Soccer Association conducts all of our background checks through RiskAware at NO COST to our coaches. These background checks are valid for 2 years from the initial date. If you have not submitted a background check through ESA within the last 2 years, you can do so by clicking here: RiskAware

**STEP TWO - CONCUSSION TRAINING CERTIFICATION**

All ESA Coaches MUST complete either the NFHS or CDC (Heads Up) Concussion Training certification linked below. Concussion certification is valid for 2 years from the initial certification date. Your certification MUST NOT expire at any time during the current season you are registering for. A valid certifcate (PDF) MUST be uploaded during your registration, as ESA does not keep your certificate on file from past registrations. If you did not save your certificate, you should be able to access it from the original issuer (NFHS or CDC).

In the Fall of 2017, the State of Ohio enacted a law bringing awareness to Sudden Cardiac Arrest in youth sports. This law requires parents and youth coaches (all sports, all levels), to view a video and read an informational handout. All parents and coaches are required to then sign a form stating that they received this information. Please take this time to watch the video and view the informational handout:

Ready to register? Click Here and scroll down to the current season coaching program to complete the online registration.

**STEP FIVE - ATTEND THE ESA PRE-SEASON COACHES' MEETING**

All coaches are required to attend our pre-season coaches' meeting. This meeting will give you an opportunity to meet our Board, as well as provide you with the information needed to coach within our league. This meeting also provides a chance to schedule your practice days/times and have any questions answered. The Spring season meeting generally takes place in early/mid March and the Fall season meeting takes place in early/mid August.

**STEP SIX - ATTEND THE ESA/CHALLENGER PRE-SEASON COACHING CLINIC**

On field training is MANDATORY for all first season coaches. If this is your first season coaching at a new division (instructional, Passers, Wings, Strikers, Kickers, Minors or Seniors) you must attend this on field training session. These sessions are provided by our league and are taught by the professional trainers of Challenger Sports. Dates for this training will be released shortly. Keep an eye on your email inbox.

If you have any questions, contact:
Thank you for your help in this effort. Let's provide the kids in our program the very best soccer experience we can!